Luxury watches have always been popular as investments – and that's not likely to change anytime soon. Especially during the pandemic, investments in watches experienced a new high. And there's good reason for this: watches not only promise significant appreciation but are also an excellent way to diversify your portfolio . And then there's the emotional attachment that watch collectors regularly develop to their finest pieces.
Why are watches such a good investment? Watches are a good investment because they combine timeless beauty with craftsmanship – much like expensive paintings. Limited editions and models from renowned brands like Rolex or Patek Philippe often increase in value. Their resistance to economic fluctuations makes them a stable investment.
In our blog post, you will learn which models are particularly promising , which brands enjoy a good reputation, and how you can minimize risks to secure your investment in the long term.
Why should watches be considered as an investment?
Luxury watches are great investments for your capital for several reasons . The main reason: Compared to other investments like real estate or stocks, watches can offer significantly greater longevity. Is the city building a new highway right next to your property? Asian companies are outcompeting the solar company you've invested in? That's disadvantageous. However, your luxury watches are usually unaffected by such developments.
We explain why you should invest in luxury watches – and what risks are involved.
What advantages do watches offer as an investment?
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Stability: Unlike real estate or stocks, watches are less affected by economic fluctuations and other external influences.
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Historical value development: Brands such as Rolex and Patek Philippe have shown stable value growth in the past.
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Portable investment: Watches are easy to transport and can be carried discreetly.
- Durability: High-quality watches can be used for generations if well cared for.
What risks are associated with watch investments?
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Market volatility: The value of watches can fluctuate depending on demand and market trends.
- Authentication: Verifying the authenticity and origin of watches can be complex and costly.
- Care and maintenance: Regular care and maintenance are essential to maintain the value of the watch in the long term.
- Counterfeit risk: The luxury watch market is vulnerable to counterfeiting.
- High acquisition costs: Luxury watches are expensive, so you'll need a lot of initial capital.
Which watch brands are known for their value increase?
Some watch brands are more popular on the market and therefore more valuable than others. This can have a variety of reasons. Some luxury watch brands are famous for their special complications, others for the special materials they use. We'll introduce you to a few particularly promising watch brands .
Which Rolex models promise increased value?
Rolex is known for its impressive historical price performance and the high demand for its models. Let's be honest: everyone knows Rolex – Vacheron Constantin, on the other hand, is only known to experts.
In Rolex's range, the Submariner and the Daytona stand out as watches that retain their value. The Submariner, originally designed as a diver's watch, is now a symbol of elegance and functionality. The Daytona, known for its connection to motorsports, has also experienced significant appreciation due to its limited availability and iconic status. In general, demand for pre-owned Rolex watches often exceeds supply, which contributes to stable prices. If you're interested in investing in Rolex, the following models might be of interest:
Submariner:
- Timeless icon with high demand
- Durability and robust design
- Historically constant increase in value
Daytona:
- Limited availability
- Strong connection to motorsport
- High collector value and increase in value
GMT Master II:
- Popular model for frequent travelers
- Second time zone and robust design
- Historically stable price development
Why are Patek Philippe watches a good investment?
Watches from the Swiss manufacturer Patek Philippe are often priced higher than those of other brands like Rolex or Cartier. Models like the Nautilus and Calatrava have experienced remarkable appreciation over the years. The Nautilus, with its unique design, and the classic Calatrava are emblematic of Patek Philippe's craftsmanship and innovative strength . Among the Patek Philippe watches of particular interest are:
Nautilus:
- Exclusive design and rarity
- High demand and limited supply
- Watches with increasing value
Calatrava:
- Classic elegance and timeless design
- Constant demand among collectors
- Value stability through craftsmanship perfection
Aquanaut:
- Modern and sporty design
- Limited availability
- High value increase potential through exclusivity
What features make Audemars Piguet watches valuable?
Audemars Piguet is a true authority in haute horlogerie and is particularly known for its Royal Oak series. The Royal Oak, with its distinctive design and high-quality craftsmanship, has experienced continuous price growth. Other special editions and limited-edition models are also sought after and often achieve high resale values. These models are worth keeping an eye on:
Royal Oak:
- Iconic design and high recognition
- Consistent increase in value
- Popular with collectors due to exclusivity
Royal Oak Offshore:
- Sporty, robust model
- Limited editions and special editions
- High demand and increased value
Jules Audemars:
- Classic, elegant design
- High craftsmanship and exclusivity
- Stable performance
Which Omega models promise increased value?
Omega watches, especially the Speedmaster and Seamaster models, have historically demonstrated stable price performance. The Speedmaster, known as the "Moonwatch," holds a very special historical significance due to its use in NASA's lunar missions. The Seamaster, with its connection to James Bond films, is popular with collectors and investors alike. All of the following models are worth a look:
Speedmaster:
- Historically significant through lunar missions
- High demand among collectors
- Constant increase in value
Seamaster:
- Connection to James Bond films
- Robust, versatile design
- Consistent demand and price development
Constellation:
- Classic, elegant design
- High craftsmanship
- Stable value development through exclusivity
Why are Tag Heuer watches an interesting investment opportunity?
Tag Heuer has made a name for itself, particularly through its connection to racing . Models like the Monaco and Carrera retain their value particularly well and are popular with collectors. The Monaco, made famous by Steve McQueen, and the Carrera, inspired by motorsport, have increased significantly in value over the years. Take a look at the following models:
Monaco:
- Iconic design, made famous by Steve McQueen
- Historical significance in motorsport
- High value stability
Career:
- Popular with motorsport enthusiasts
- Timeless design and robust construction
- Constant demand and increase in value
Aquaracer:
- Sporty design and high functionality
- Consistently high demand
- Stable value growth
Which other watch brands could promise an increase in value?
In addition to the watches from the aforementioned luxury watch brands, there are, of course, many other models that could be of great interest to you as an investor. Brands like IWC and the German manufacturers Nomos Glashütte and A. Lange & Söhne also produce watches that typically increase in value over time.
So, which watches can increase in value? These IWC models are particularly interesting:
Portuguese Chronograph:
- Elegant, timeless design
- High precision and craftsmanship
- Popular with collectors and investors
Pilot's Watch Mark XVIII:
- Classic pilot watch design
- Robust and functional
- Stable performance and high demand
Ingenieur Automatic:
- Sporty-elegant design
- Technical sophistication and robustness
- Appreciated model among watch lovers
Valuable watches from Nomos Glashütte include the following:
Tangent:
- Minimalist Bauhaus design
- High craftsmanship and precision
- Popular with design lovers and collectors
Orion:
- Elegant, classic design
- Slim housing and clear lines
- Stable performance and high demand
Metro:
- Modern, urban design
- Innovative technology and craftsmanship
- Appreciated for their uniqueness
You might be interested in the following A. Lange & Söhne watches as an investment:
Long 1:
- Iconic, asymmetrical dial
- High craftsmanship and exclusivity
- Stable increase in value and high collector demand
Saxony:
- Classic, elegant design
- High-precision movements and exquisite workmanship
- Popular with connoisseurs and collectors
Timepiece:
- Innovative, digital dial
- Combination of tradition and innovation
- High demand and potential for value appreciation
What should investors consider when choosing a watch?
There are several important points to consider when choosing a luxury watch. The most important thing is undoubtedly to verify that the watch of your choice is truly a high-quality luxury watch and not a cheap fake . To verify authenticity, you should have the serial number and movement examined by a recognized expert. Original certificates and packaging are also important indicators of authenticity and can significantly increase the value.
The condition of the watch is also a significant factor . Scratches, dents, or other imperfections can significantly reduce a watch's value. An expert can help you determine its value here, too.
Also, be careful where you buy your watch. Different platforms and marketplaces offer different advantages and disadvantages . You can often find rare pieces at auctions, but prices can quickly be driven up by other bidders. Dealers offer tested and certified watches, but usually at higher prices. Online marketplaces offer a wide selection and often lower prices, but carry the risk of counterfeits.
What does the future of the watch market look like?
Just like watches themselves, the watch market isn't standing still. New trends and developments are constantly transforming it. Smartwatches, for example, are gaining increasing popularity and influencing the luxury watch market by appealing to a new target audience.
Sustainability and ethical production are also becoming increasingly important as more and more buyers pay attention to environmentally friendly and socially responsible manufacturing processes.
Nevertheless, demand for classic luxury watches remains strong , especially among collectors and investors. After all, much of the value of luxury watches derives from the unparalleled craftsmanship that goes into the creation of each watch.
Risks of investing in wristwatches
Yes, luxury watches are comparatively very safe investments . However, there are a few risks you should be aware of. Losses in value of watches can occur primarily due to damage and market fluctuations. While you can't really influence the market itself, you can prevent damage through meticulous care and maintenance, as well as safe storage of your watch.
Counterfeits also continue to flood the market . Expertise and thorough research are therefore crucial for choosing the right investment watch. If you want to invest in watches, you can minimize the risk by purchasing only from reputable dealers and having the authenticity of the watch confirmed by experts.
Conclusion: Are wristwatches a worthwhile investment?
If you're looking for a new investment to diversify your portfolio , you should definitely consider wristwatches. Luxury watches from renowned brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet have historically proven to retain their value extremely well.
However, risks such as loss of value due to damage, counterfeiting, or market fluctuations should not be underestimated . Thorough research and in-depth market knowledge are crucial for making a wise investment decision.
FAQs
Which watch brands have the best increase in value?
Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet are known for their outstanding appreciation. Models such as the Rolex Submariner, Patek Philippe Nautilus, and Audemars Piguet Royal Oak are particularly stable in value and sought after by collectors and investors.
How long should you keep a watch before selling it?
It's recommended to hold a watch for at least five to ten years to benefit from a significant increase in value. Long-term holding allows you to benefit from market trends and the increasing rarity of certain models.
Where can you find reliable information about watch investments?
Reliable information about watch investments can be found in trade magazines, specialized blogs , and online forums such as Watchuseek or Hodinkee. Auction houses and luxury watch dealers also offer in-depth analyses and market assessments.
